windows phone uk

The Windows Phone UK team have released two editions of the Apps Magazine so far that is focused on helping new adopters get started with their new Windows Phones. Edition #3 is readily available should you find yourself in the dark and haven't quite yet got round to checking it out for the rich content available.

The edition follows #2, which was released back in November. As well as running through a number of apps (160 to be exact) available on the Marketplace, the magazine does feature highlights of Windows Phone itself, from Live Tiles to Bing and local services. Whether you're an experienced fan or have just jumped from a competitor platform, it's well worth a read.

We've been following the Windows Phone UK Dare to Live tour, which is challenging the public in a number of major city across the UK. Previously, we looked at how the campaign was progressing with the win / loss ratio, and it was revealed that Windows Phone certainly was the leading platform with a considerable lead.

Now the Dare to Live challenge has made its way to Brighton in the south of England. Should you find yourself in and around the area this week, be sure to pop down and check out the event. If you're reading this and use a competitor smartphone, why not try your luck and potentially pocket £20 by beating Windows Phone? Should you lose, well, you know what happens by now.

The Windows Phone UK team are giving away four Windows Phone mugs to those who send in the best photos representing Spring. With the constant weather alterations we're currently experiencing, now would be a perfect time to get snapping to win your own brew server. The winning photos will be selected based on originality and how eye catching they are compared to other submissions - check the above photo for inspiration.

To put forward your entry, simply follow the Windows Phone UK team on Twitter and tweet them your photo. Be sure to include what app you used (if any) to add effects. On the official announcement post the team have encouraged the use of photo editing apps for Windows Phone. There are a number available, some which we've recommended ourselves. Also, why not check out our Windows Phone camera tutorial to make sure you get the most out of your camera's performance?

You've got until April 26th (17:00) to get your submissions in and note that this competition is open to UK residents only. Check out the terms and conditions for more information.

Windows Phone UK has started up a social rewards program, titled "into by Windows Phone" that provides followers with intriguing prizes should they accumulate enough points. It's a great way to get Windows Phone owners advertising and promoting the platform to friends and family to win the rewards.

Offers are handpicked, as well as unique events and experiences (such as an Arctic Cold Adventure). The video located after the break explains the program best.

We keep hearing how Microsoft (and partners) need to sell their devices. And while we mean that in the literal sense, we also mean it in the advertising one as well--they need pizazz, a way to draw in users.

We know with "Mango", Microsoft's partners (OEMs, carriers) will be taking on a larger roll in advertising. What you see above is what looks like to be a first attempt at that, with HTC making a nifty 45 second spot called "HTC TITAN: Reveal". The ad has the phone forming out of air with some solid music playing.

Our only criticism? Would have been nice to throw in some specs--not even a mention of the 4.7" screen? Seems like sacrilege to us. But hey, it's a start.